Introduction

The Hong Kong Equestrian Federation (HKEF), established on 27th August 1973, is the sole official body representing equestrian sports in Hong Kong. Being dedicated to the promotion of the sports amongst the Hong Kong public, the HKEF has organised a wide range of shows and events over the past decades, including the Hong Kong Masters- the only five-star accredited equestrian competition in Asia.

Equestrianism is one of the very few sports where men and women can compete on equal terms, and it is the only sports requiring mutual trust between men and animals. To better promote the sport especially when the 2008 Olympic and Paralympic Equestrian Events were successfully hosted in Hong Kong, the Federation has been applying for subvention from the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) every year to organize the “Promotional Programme of Equestrian Sports – School Visits to Riding Schools and Pony Ride” for primary, secondary and special schools since 2007. The programme aims at offering opportunities for students to get exposure in equestrianism, so as to enhance their understanding on the sport and develop interest in it. Over 300 schools and 16,000 students have been invited to participate in the programme since 2007. The programme will continue to strive for excellence and strengthen students’ understanding on equestrianism.

Programme details
Primary, secondary and special schools from 18 districts in Hong Kong are invited to visit the Tuen Mun Public Riding School (45 Lung Mun Road, Tuen Mun, New Territories) within June to August. Equestrian knowledge will be introduced to help students develop a better understanding of the equestrian sports. Students will also have the opportunities to ride ponies if the weather conditions permit.

Main activities

Video playing of “Understanding Equestrian Sports”

Introducing basic equestrian knowledge and safety tips

Stable visit

Riding class observation

Shetland pony feeding

Pony ride trial

How to apply

Any schools and institutions that are interested in the visit may send a maximum of 40 students and two accompanying teachers/staff for each activity session (Please note that special schools are allowed to decide themselves the number of accompanying staff/ parents. However, the total number of participants must not exceed 42).

Please fill in the online application form (available on HKEF’s webpage for this programme) or complete the attached application form and return it to HKEF, either by fax to 2966 5082, email to jeff.ho@hkef.org or post to 8/F Central Complex, HKJC Shatin Race Course, Shatin, Hong Kong) on or before 7 May 2018 (Mon) 5:00 p.m.

Application results

Application results will be determined by drawing lots and posted on HKEF’s website on 14 May 2018 (Mon). Successful applicants will be informed via phone call and email, and they will be asked to submit a “Student Nomination Form” with the principal’s signature and school chop.
Schools that do not receive any notices after 15 May 2018 (Tue) may assume their applications unsuccessful. to coordinate with promotion policy, the priority will be given to the schools that have not participated in the programme before.

Transportation arrangements

Free shuttle bus services will be provided between the riding school and the visiting school. Further details of the transportation arrangement will be sent to visiting schools in due course.

Unforeseen bad weathers

If the Hong Kong Observatory has issued the red or black rainstorm warning signal or forecasted/hoisted the typhoon cyclone warning signal No. 3 or above within 2 hours before the activity commences, the visit will be cancelled. For details, please refer to the section of ‘Bad Weather Arrangements’ on HKEF’s website (please see below). Should the visit be cancelled, the Hong Kong Equestrian Federation will inform the schools, and they may contact Mr. Jeff Ho for enquiry at 2966 6094.

Enquiries

For any queries, please contact Ms. Vicky Wong at 2966 5085 or send an email to vicky.wong@hkef.org. For further information, please visit our Facebook page for the programme.